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When it comes to playing spin, Indian batsmen are considered masters, known for their agility and precision on turning tracks. Yet, there have been instances when overseas left-arm spinners have cracked the code, spinning webs around the Indian batters on their own turf. These unforgettable performances by left-arm spinners not only redefined their careers but also led to historic moments in cricket. Let’s dive into the five most iconic spells by overseas left-arm spinners in Test matches in India.
1.Mitchel Santner – Top on the list and most recent of the lot, the quiet Mitchel Santner silenced the crowd of Pune in the second test match of NewZealand tour of India 2024.
Mitchel Santner 13 for 157 and played a key role in NewZealand winning the test match by 113 runs.
2. Stephen O’Keefe – 12/70 in Pune, 2017
In the 2017 Pune Test, Australian left-arm spinner Stephen O’Keefe delivered a jaw-dropping performance, taking 12 wickets for just 70 runs across both innings. India, with its seasoned players of spin, was expected to dominate, but O’Keefe had other plans. He took identical figures of 6/35 in both innings, spinning his way through a formidable lineup that included Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Ajinkya Rahane. India was bowled out for scores of 105 and 107, handing Australia a massive 333-run victory and their first Test win on Indian soil since 2004. His relentless precision and subtle variations left Indian batsmen perplexed and firmly secured his place in Test cricket history.
3. Ajaz Patel – 10/119 in Mumbai, 2021
Ajaz Patel’s extraordinary performance at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium in 2021 saw him achieve the rare feat of taking all 10 wickets in a single innings. With figures of 10/119, Patel became only the third bowler in Test history to accomplish this milestone. The New Zealand left-arm spinner showcased remarkable control, removing the likes of Kohli, Pujara, and Ashwin. Despite New Zealand’s loss, Patel’s achievement stood out as one of the finest displays of left-arm spin against a skilled Indian side on a turning track. His name now sits beside legends like Jim Laker and Anil Kumble, making this feat even more monumental.
4. Monty Panesar – 11/210 in Mumbai, 2012
During England’s 2012 tour of India, Monty Panesar delivered a spectacular performance in the Mumbai Test, taking 11 wickets across both innings (5/129 and 6/81). Working alongside Graeme Swann, Panesar’s ability to extract turn and bounce from the Wankhede pitch left the Indian batting lineup, including Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag, struggling to find answers. Panesar’s precision and unyielding accuracy were critical in England’s 10-wicket victory, marking their first series win in India since 1984-85. His performance remains a testament to his skill and resilience in one of the toughest environments for an overseas spinner.
5. Rangana Herath (Sri Lanka) – 7/48, Galle 2015
In the first Test of the 2015 series against India, Sri Lanka’s Rangana Herath produced an unforgettable performance in Galle. Chasing a target of 176, India began with confidence after scoring 375 in their first innings. However, Herath’s skillful left-arm spin dismantled India’s batting order, taking 7/48 in the second innings to bowl them out for just 112. His remarkable control over the turn and subtle variations kept India’s batters, including Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma, from mounting any serious resistance. Herath’s spell led Sri Lanka to a stunning 63-run victory, marking one of his finest Test performances.
These performances by overseas left-arm spinners on Indian soil demonstrate not only remarkable skill but also the adaptability required to succeed in challenging conditions. Each of these spells has earned its place in Test cricket’s rich history, showcasing the enduring appeal and unpredictability of spin bowling.
